Darlene

“Once the two of them were alone in the room, Maomao took a deep breath, then heaved a sigh. “Master Jinshi.” “Yes?” “Don’t you think you’re pushing yourself too hard?” The last vestiges of the Moon Prince vanished. “Is there ever a time when I’m not?”
― Natsu Hyuuga, The Apothecary Diaries (Light Novel): Volume 10

“Deliberately or not, Lahan chose that moment to whisper in her ear, “And when can we expect the pitter-patter of little feet?” His glasses flashed.”
― Natsu Hyuuga, The Apothecary Diaries (Light Novel): Volume 9

“For you, I will remove every obstacle that keeps us apart. One day. Just know that.” With that, Jinshi buried himself under the covers. “I won’t let what you fear come to pass. I swear it.” Soon she heard him breathing evenly in sleep. What I fear... Maomao pictured Empress Gyokuyou. I don’t think Master Jinshi knows, she thought. She didn’t think he was aware of the secret of his own birth. What about Empress Gyokuyou? Does she know? And what did His Majesty want for Jinshi? What about Ah-Duo? It’s never good to know too much.”
― Natsu Hyuuga, The Apothecary Diaries (Light Novel): Volume 7

“He took a breath. He was looking at Maomao, but somehow he seemed almost embarrassed. Finally he managed, “Now listen to me, y—I mean, Maomao! Listen close! I am going to make you my wife!” He’d said it. He’d actually said it. To her, it sounded like a death sentence. All his vagueness, all his ambiguity had actually been a show of kindness to Maomao. For with her social status, the words once spoken were as good as a command. She couldn’t fight them, couldn’t contravene what he wished.”
― Natsu Hyuuga, The Apothecary Diaries (Light Novel): Volume 7